Bogus Collectors

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Question and Answer:
Q. Slmz, we have a lot of foreign alims comming for collection for zakaat and lillah what do we do cos they don’t have official letters from south africa stating that they are legit and some of them are demanding please. Advice on what to do or who is controlling them

(Question published as received)

A. Undoubtedly charity cools the anger of Allah. However intelligence demands that Donors be more vigilant as Collectors and bogus ‘Collectors’ are on the increase.
The Issuing of a Letter of Recommendation (LOR) is an immense responsibility. Hence the Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) only issues an LOR after thorough investigation that includes the following :

1) A scrutiny of the constitution.
2) A check of the bona-fides of officials of the organization together with their credentials – previous experience in community service.
3) A check, by our accounting team, of the audited financial statements.
4) A check of the needs in the area.
5) A check of various other relevant information.

FOREIGN COLLECTORS:

The Jamiatul Ulama after careful consideration is not issuing LORs to foreign collectors, due to, amongst other reasons, the following:-
1) Unable to satisfy itself as regards the afore-mentioned checks.
2) Abuse of funds. A guide is hired at R300 or more per day, excluding petrol, food and boarding.
3) A disgruntled individual sets up a mirror institution in close proximity without any need whatsoever-(self enrichment).

LOCAL COLLECTORS:-

The Jamiatul Ulama KZN operates in the entire province of KwaZulu Natal, parts of the Eastern Cape, and also in parts of the Free state. In the larger and smaller urban areas the Jamiat is aware of well-established welfare organizations and also structures for sound Deeni education. The Jamiat’s Taleemi Board is also engaging in relief work together with the imparting of Taleem in the rural areas and even beyond.

The Jamiat cautions against donating funds to individuals or organizations collecting in the name of Islamic projects without producing an authentic Jamiat LOR.